Indians living in the United States are witnessing a sharp rise in cyber extortion and scam attempts, with official data indicating a dramatic spike in complaints over the past year. According to figures shared by the Ministry of External Affairs in the Rajya Sabha, reported cases jumped from just 8 to 613 within a year, signalling a growing threat to the Indian diaspora abroad.

The surge comes at a time when visa-related uncertainties and stricter immigration scrutiny in the US are creating an environment that fraudsters are increasingly exploiting.

Sharp rise in complaints raises alarm

The data highlights how cyber-enabled crimes targeting Indians overseas have evolved rapidly. While such incidents were negligible in earlier years, 2025 saw a steep escalation, particularly in the United States.

Officials noted that this trend is not limited to one country. Nations such as Cambodia and Myanmar have reported even higher numbers, pointing to a wider global network of cyber exploitation targeting Indian nationals.

However, the US stands out due to the profile of victims, which largely includes students and skilled professionals working on temporary visas.

Scammers impersonating US authorities

A majority of complaints involve fraudsters posing as officials from key US agencies such as the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), US Department of Homeland Security, and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Victims report receiving threatening calls or emails that appear legitimate, often using spoofed phone numbers and official-looking email IDs. These communications typically warn of serious consequences such as deportation, visa cancellation, or legal action.

Fraudsters then demand immediate payment under the pretext of “resolving” the issue, exploiting fear and urgency.

Visa uncertainty fuelling fraud

Experts believe that tightening immigration policies and increased scrutiny have contributed to a climate of anxiety among migrants, making them more vulnerable to such scams.

Individuals on F-1 student visas, H-1B work visas, and H-4 dependent visas are among the most targeted groups. Scammers frequently refer to real concerns such as:

  • SEVIS record issues
  • Visa renewal delays
  • Appointment backlogs
  • Risk of visa revocation

By referencing genuine processes, fraudsters make their claims appear credible and convincing.

Evolving tactics: targeting families in India

In a worrying development, scammers are now extending their operations beyond the US by targeting victims’ families in India.

There have been cases where parents receive distressing calls claiming that their children abroad have been detained. In some instances, fraudsters have used AI-generated or manipulated voice recordings to mimic the voices of their relatives, adding a layer of emotional pressure to extract money.

This shift indicates a more organised and technologically advanced approach to cybercrime.

Safety tips for Indians abroad

Authorities and experts have urged Indians living overseas to remain vigilant and follow basic safety measures to avoid falling victim to such scams:

  • Do not share personal or financial information during unsolicited calls or emails
  • Always verify claims through official government websites or embassy channels
  • Avoid making immediate payments under pressure or threats
  • Report suspicious activity to local authorities or Indian missions promptly

Staying informed and cautious remains the most effective defence against such cyber threats.

Conclusion

The sharp rise in cyber extortion cases involving Indians in the US underscores a growing global challenge. As scammers become more sophisticated and exploit immigration-related anxieties, awareness and timely verification are crucial.

While authorities continue to monitor and address the issue, individuals must remain alert to protect themselves and their families from falling prey to these increasingly complex fraud schemes.